Clear Instructions

Teaching set

Observed lessons

The tao stops when you sanction things about which you are doubtful or
when you fail to act when it is needed.

The tao begins when you are soft and quiet, dignified and respectful,
tolerant yet hard.

Discussion

The title 'Clear Instructions' is about the king asking the sage for clear
instructions on how live.

The question 'what is Tao' is a difficult one. At a grand level, it is the
absolute principle underlying order in the universe. It is the root of Taoism.
And most of all, it is practical guidance in how to live in harmony with the
world.

Literally, 'tao' means 'the path' or 'the way'. It can also mean
'discipline'.

The book Tao Te Ching, by Lao Tsu says much about the Tao. It is
related to Buddhism in its peaceful intent and preaching of tolerance,
simplicity and humility.

It includes the duality of yin and yang, where each is contained deep within
the other and each defines the other. Hence within soft there is hard, and
within hard there is soft, as may be found in the forms of Tai Chi.

The path of a great leader is followed like the path of a warrior, sensing
the way and flowing with the forces around. Tao is ineffable, inexpressible, yet
essential and ultimate. We can never fully define it, yet we constantly strive
towards it.